Anti-LGBTQ+ Republican RJ May Resigns After Arrest on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges

RJ May, a Republican representative from South Carolina, resigned his House seat this week, two months after his arrest on charges of distributing child sexual abuse material. The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury in Greenville, included ten counts related to the illegal distribution of such materials. May, age 38, had served in the South Carolina House and was publicly recognized for his vocal opposition to LGBTQ+ rights throughout his tenure.

Federal prosecutors brought the charges after an investigation uncovered evidence of May’s involvement in the distribution of child sexual abuse material. He was indicted under federal law, which carries severe penalties for such offenses. The charges against May are part of a broader effort by law enforcement to address crimes against children in South Carolina.

May's resignation has generated intense public and political reaction, particularly given his history of supporting anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rhetoric. Throughout his service, May frequently opposed policies designed to protect LGBTQ+ individuals, including transgender people, from discrimination and violence.

LGBTQ+ advocates and organizations responded swiftly, highlighting the discrepancy between May's public positions and the nature of the charges against him. Many pointed out a pattern of political hypocrisy, where lawmakers who target marginalized groups are themselves implicated in criminal behavior.

In a joint statement, local LGBTQ+ leaders called for greater accountability in politics, stating, “We demand that our public officials uphold the values of justice and equality, not weaponize their positions against vulnerable communities while engaging in harmful and illegal activity.”

May’s anti-LGBTQ+ record included support for bills restricting access to gender-affirming care, opposing protections for LGBTQ+ students, and backing measures that limited transgender people’s participation in sports. His resignation has prompted renewed discussion about the safety and inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in South Carolina and beyond.

Advocates argue that cases like May’s highlight the need for vigilance against the misuse of political power, particularly when it targets marginalized groups. The scandal has also reignited debate about the standards for elected officials and the mechanisms for holding them accountable.

In the wake of May’s resignation, state legislators and advocacy organizations are calling for reforms to ensure robust vetting and oversight of public officials. There is growing support for policies that create transparent reporting and accountability mechanisms, especially in cases involving crimes against children and marginalized communities.

The case has also led to renewed emphasis on the importance of affirming and inclusive policies for LGBTQ+ people. Community leaders are urging lawmakers to reject discriminatory proposals and instead focus on legislation that supports the dignity, safety, and well-being of all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

As the legal process against RJ May continues, attention remains focused on the broader issue of political accountability and the protection of vulnerable populations. For LGBTQ+ communities, the incident serves as both a cautionary tale and a rallying point for advocacy and reform.

Local and national organizations have reiterated their commitment to standing against both criminal abuse and political discrimination. They are calling for concrete steps from legislators to prevent similar incidents in the future and to ensure that all South Carolinians, including LGBTQ+ people, have access to justice and fair representation.